DAMAGE AT A FLORIDA HISTORICAL ICON...BUT WE'RE LUCKY

A fire believed to have started in an electrical panel destroyed a wood shop and wreck room as well as caused heavy damage to the maintenence barn at Polk County's historic Chalet Suzanne near Lake Wales. Fortunately, the blaze was brought under control quickly as Lake Wales and Polk County firefighters responded. It did not affect the well-known restaurant, which has consistantly received high ratings in a number of national publications.

But there will be changes there, as owners Eric and Denise Hinshaw will construct a conference centre on the property to host meetings, weddings, and larger events.

It would have been a shame to lose such a wonderful part of Florida. We're all extremely fortunate.